Rapture Music Festival is suing Ultra Miami in federal court, Ultra claims lawsuit has no merit

Everything is business as usual for Ultra Miami’s move to Virginia Key Beach Park and Miami Marine Stadium, despite recent news that Rapture issued a cease-and-decist to UMF organizers over land use conflicts. Rapture previously demanded that Ultra cease applying for permits on the island for its 2019 iteration, or risk facing a federal lawsuit. However, Ultra is still issuing the green light on the basis that “there is no merit to the recent lawsuit.”

Ultra issued a press statement in response to getting served by Rapture organizers:

There is no merit to yesterday’s lawsuit. To claim that Ultra has violated the law is both disappointing and misplaced. Ultra lawfully secured its license to host its annual production on Virginia Key, including by obtaining necessary approvals from the City of Miami Commission. We are excited to present our fans with what will be the best and most transformative music festival that we have ever produced by way of music, artists, experience, cutting edge and technologically advanced production elements and novel art installations. We look forward to hosting our 21st edition of the Ultra Music Festival at our new home at Miami Marine Stadium and Historic Virginia Key Beach Park on March 29, 30 and 31, 2019.

Despite Ultra and Rapture both selling tickets for their respective events, there is only room for one on the island. Rapture told fans they filed a federal lawsuit that will include an emergency injunction against Ultra, City of Miami, and Virginia Key Beach Trust (read the full Facebook statement below).

It looks as though Rapture is taking on three gigantic opponents—and if there’s one way these cases historically swing, it is in the direction of the money.